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The Alter And Its Tools...

 

 

The Altar
The altar can be made of any material, but wood and metal are best. The altar must be large enough to hold all of the tools required for a working (about 2X3 feet is best). It represents earth and is a means of connecting your power and magic to it. It serves as a link between you and the earth as sort of an extension of the earth itself.
The altar sits exactly in the centre of the circle facing east, the direction of beginnings and of the rising sun. The altar should be covered with an altar cloth. The color depends on the type of spellwork you are performing. White and black are best and can be used for most any type of spellwork. A soilable altar cloth is best as you will likely be accidentally spilling things onto it such as oils, herbs, ashes, wine and candle wax.
The altar can be set up indoors or outdoors. A working altar for a circle is carefully put away when your working is done, unless it is out of doors. A decorative shrine type altar dedicated to one or more Gods or Goddesses can be set up anywhere and left up at all times


The Tools...

You could have any of the following...

  • Altar Clothes
  • Athame
  • Beads
  • Baskets
  • Bell (And Dorje)
  • Boline
  • Book of Shadows
  • Books for Info
  • Bowls
  • Brooms
  • Candles
  • Candle holders
  • Candle Snuffer
  • Capes and Costumes
  • Cauldron
  • Chalices
  • Chants
  • Crystals and Gems
  • Crystal Balls
  • Deacnter
  • Divination Tools
  • Earth
  • Feathers
  • God and Goddess Symbols
  • Glass Jar with Cork
  • Glue
  • Herbs, Dried Plants, Spices
  • Holy Water
  • Holy Oil
  • Incense, Bricks, Burners, and Fire Resistant Plates
  • India Ink
  • Fabric for Crafts
  • Felt
  • Lighters
  • Magick Mirror
  • Magical Jewellery
  • Matches
  • Mortar and Pestle
  • Oil
  • Musical tapes
  • Paint
  • Parchment Paper
  • Pendulum
  • Pentagrams
  • Pentacle
  • Pitchers
  • Potpourri
  • Potpourri Pot
  • Pouches
  • Quill pens
  • Rawhide, Jewellery Clasps, Etc.
  • Rice
  • Runes
  • Rope
  • Salt
  • Scales
  • Scissors
  • Sea Salts
  • Seeds
  • Statues
  • String
  • Stencil and Brushes
  • Talisman
  • Tarot Cards
  • Tobacco
  • Wands
  • Wooden Boxes
  • Wooden Spoons
  • (And anything else you feel you need)

 

CLEANSING AND CONSECRATING
 
There are three basic reasons for cleansing and consecrating:
  • It removes any negative residue that has attached itself to the item or place.
  • It melds your positive energy with that of the Universe to bring divinity.
  • It instills this energy into the object or place for positive purposes.
Cleansing and Consecrating your Sacred Space and Tools
For this ritual you will need:
2 illuminator candles
  • Pre-blessed water (holy water)
  • 4 element candles (red, blue, brown, yellow)
  • Incense (sage) and burner
  • Large pentacle (approx 14")
  • Lighter
At sometime during the day you plan to perform the ritual, you should thoroughly clean the sacred space that you intend to dedicate; dusting, vacuming, mopping, whatever. Once you have finished and have double-checked that you have everything, go and take a shower or a bath with scented oil. Choose clothing that is not restrictive, or you may even wish to work skyclad. When you are nearly ready to begin, place each of the element candles at the appropriate compass points. East, yellow or gold candle; South, red or orange candle; West, blue or purple candle; North, green or brown candle. Place the silver candle on the altar.
 
Light the illuminator candles with the lighter. Going desoil, light each element candle. Light the incense. Pick up the incense burner and as you walk inside in a desoil manner. Repeat: With the elements fire and air I cleanse this space.
Shut your eyes and feel the air and fire energy move within the circle. Return to the altar and pick up the chalice of holy water. Sprinkle the holy water as you walk desoil within the circle and repeat: With the elements water and earth I cleanse this space
Feel the elements flow desoil around the circle. Stand in the center of the circle in the Goddess position and say:With the element of spirit and by the powers of the Divine I consecrate this space!
 
Feel the power of the Goddess and God enter your being and your sacred space, feel the energy build within you and around you then let it go and meld with the Universe.
If you are not cleansing and consecrating any tools or jewellery, you will want to end the ritual here by thanking the God, Godess and any elements for their participation. When you are finished you must ground and close the circle. If you are going to cleanse and consecrate any items then continue with the following steps.
Stand (or kneel) before your altar and pick up the first item to be consecrated. Pass it over the incense and say: By the powers of air and fire I cleanse and consecrate this___________of all it's negativity so that it may be used for positive means within my magickal workings.
Next, sprinkle the item with holy water and say: By the powers of water and earth I cleanse and consecrate this___________of all it's negativity so that it may be used for positive means within my magickal workings.
Now lay the item down on top of your pentacle. Cup your hands together and imagine a growing ball of bright white light within them. When the ball is big enough push it into the heart of the item. Say: By the power of spirit I have empowered this item, may the Lord and Lady's blessing shine upon and through it always. Follow the closing procedure, that is, thank the God and Goddess, then the Elements and then banish the circle.

 

 

THE WITCH:
You are the most magickal tool of all. It is your intentions and energies that determine the results of any magickal work. Many Witches never use any other tool but their own personal energies! And some of the most powerful workings can be done without ever leaving your armchair. It is the focus, concentration, intentions and desires that reside within YOU that are the real 'tools" of the Witch!

 

ATHAME: (pronounced "a-thAM-ay" or "ATH-a-may")
Many Witches own one or more ritual knives. These are commonly known as "athames" in Wiccan circles. In the Scottish traditions, the knife is called a "yag-dirk" and in Sax Wicca it is known as a "seax" (see-ax). As with all ritual tools, the athame is a very personal magickal item-one which you will want to take some care in obtaining. It should fit well and comfortably in your hand, for one thing. You certainly wouldn't want it to go flying across the room while you are casting a circle. This type of occurrence could cause a drastic drop in the attendance level at your next circle!
Many Witches make their own blades or "personalize" purchased ones with runes, carvings and other symbols; all of which serve to blend the energy of the tool with their own magickal intentions. Modern Witchcraft books almost always state that the athame is a "black handled double edged iron blade." You may call this model, "the classic', if you like! But many other practitioners now use athames made from stainless steel, copper, silver and various other metals, or even carved stone. Some have family heirlooms, such as letter openers which serve the purpose. Some Witches never use a blade at all! So you can see, it is more important that the tool you choose suits you personally rather than reflect the latest fashion craze.
The athame can be used to cast the magick circle, call the "quarters" or elements, and is part of many an opening ritual, handfasting (wedding) or initiation rite. It is associated with the element of Fire and the South. It is customary in some traditions to have your blade given to you as a gift. Some Witches or ceremonial workers give their tools a magickal "name". (This practice has become a common reference in many role playing games and fantasy novels.)
Almost all materials written state-and most Witches/Wiccans, with the possible exception of the Sax Wiccans, agree- that magickal tools should not be used for any other purpose than ritual work. Often the blade is left "dull" or unsharpened because of this. (Another blade, the "boleen", with a white handle is sometimes used to harvest herbs or carve symbols, but not used for ritual work.) Some Witches will not let their tools be touched by anyone other than themselves. Some covens or working groups share common tools. It is, other than for those who are dedicated into a specific Tradition, what you are comfortable with.

 

THE BROOM:
The broom or "besom" is used for cleansing ritual areas, hence the term "making a clean sweep". In handfasting rituals, couples often jump over the broom if they want children. (If you don't want children, DON'T JUMP! The combination of the "brush" and the handle are a very powerful fertility symbol.) Many Witches have a broom-brushy side up-by their door to protect the home from unwanted outside energies.

 

THE BELL:
Bells have been around for many years, they come in different shapes and sizes, as well as different tones and sounds. The most popular bell in the US is the liberty bell. Another popular bell is the Noter Dame bell found France. It is a wonder why we like these bell. It might just be the rhythmic sound and vibrations. People have been singing Songs and carols about this beautiful instruments for years, that might just be why there are associated with winter holidays. The bell also has magical associations. It has been believed for centuries to possess a magical and/or spiritual power. They are associated with the divine: their sound is symbolic of creative power, their shape a symbol of the female force and celestial vault. The bell is an uncommon tool. Yet, once you use it in a ritual, you might just feel the need to keep using it. There is no one way to use the bell, use your imagination! Here are a few ideas; you can use it to open and close the sacred circle, Invoke the Goddess, ring to ward off negative energies (as well as invite positive energies ), or use it to signal different sections of a ritual and/or Sabbat. But most of all have fun, create your own rituals using the bell! (bell thoughts submitted by Rain')

 

THE CAULDRON:
 
One of the most common symbols of Witchcraft, the cauldron was once found sitting by the fireplace in almost all homes. The cauldron-traditionally with three legs- represents bounty and blessings. In some Celtic Traditions, it is associated with otherworldly figures such as Bran the Blessed and the Goddess Cerridwen. Based on these myths, the cauldron has also come to represent the concept of reincarnation and the cycles of birth, death and rebirth. Many Witches believe in some form of reincarnation or the transmigration of souls.
 
Cauldrons can be used to represent water and used for scrying. It is sometimes used in association with elemental fire as well and small "bonfires" can be lit in them to burn spells or incense. Jumping over the cauldron has replaced the "bonfire" leap in modern times and urban spaces. It can, depending on intent and use, be placed in the Female West or Male South. Cauldrons range in size from the small altar models to the antique "floor" type. Many Witches have cauldrons in various sizes for different workings and purposes. Cats like to store their toys in them, too!

 

THE CHALICE:
The chalice or cup is used on the altar to represent the Female principle of Water. Another chalice or cauldron is sometimes placed in the West as well.
The chalice along with the athame, sword or wand are the modern tools which are used in the enactment of the "Great Rite"-the union of the male and female principle from which Life will spring.
 
Chalices may be of any material. Many use silver or pewter (be careful with untreated metals when serving wine), but ceramic ones are now quite popular and readily obtainable. Some Witches have many different kinds for different types of rituals. Many a practitioner will avoid real "lead" crystal because of the Saturn energy influence.
 
The chalice is sometimes passed around the circle so each participant may take a sip from the cup. This is a bonding experience and often the words "May you never thirst!" are passed throughout the circle with the chalice.
Libations of wine or water are often then poured outside to honor the Old Ones and "sabbat" cakes are also offered back to the Source in a similar manner.

 

THE CLOTHING MAGICKAL:
 
Clothing is "optional" for many Witches. If you are dedicated into a Tradition, you may practice "skyclad".
 
The clothing-robes, capes, jewelry and other items-used in ritual work is usually dedicated to only these uses. Having "special" garments lends an "otherworldly" feel and sets ritual work apart from mundane life.
 
Many traditions or paths have a "standard" wardrobe which reflects the ethnic background of that path. Scots may wear kilts and Druids may wear hooded robes. Many embroider magickal symbols on their ritual clothing or "hide" small magickal items in the seams and hems to act as talismans for protection.

 

The PATON OR ALTAR PENTACLE:
 
The Altar pentacle is usually a disk or plate of metal or wood inscribed with the five pointed star in a circle. (See our pentacle section for more details on the pentagram and its meanings.) This is set upon the altar and used to consecrate various other tools and as a focal point of concentration for magickal workings. It is associated with the Female North and the element of Earth. Some Witches use a paton when calling in the elements as well.
 
Patons (sometimes "peytons" or "patens") can now be found made of ceramic and glass. You can even make your own from clay or simply draw and color one on stiff paper. In some references, it is stated that patons in the 'old days" were only made from disposable materials so that evidence of your beliefs could be quickly burned should the authorities come knocking at your door!

 

THE STAFF:
 
The staff is a very important tool in some traditions. It is used to mark quarter points or as a "stang" to hold banners representing elements or other unique symbolic flags.
The staff may be used in much the same manner as the wand. It is usually matched "to your measure"- which means it reaches to your shoulder- making it easy and comfortable for you to handle without either knocking yourself upside the head or having it trip you up from behind. Any such incident will amuse your friends, but do little to enhance your image in the magickal community!

 

THE SWORD:
 
With the coming of the modern "Celtic Revival", the sword has become a very popular-and quite showy- magickal tool. It can used in place of, or in addition to, the athame. Most groups who hold rituals indoors usually limit the use of the sword to just one for the Priest/Priestess. Ten five- foot swords in a small room could get a bit messy, I would think! However at festivals and outdoor rituals, Witches often bring their own swords to mark the boundaries or quarter points of the circle. There is now a growing interest in actual "sword play" and entire festivals have sprung up which feature events based on swordsman- or woman!-ship.

 

THE THURIBLE OR INCENSE BURNER:
 
A container used to contain a hot coal for burning incense. This is best made from a fire resistant or fire proof material. The most common are the "mini-cauldrons' of iron and the various brass types which come in wonderful shapes and sizes. Some even hang on a chain. The incense itself represents the element of Air while the fire (charcoal) represents Fire. The combination of these two elements are used to purify ritual areas, other tools or the circle itself.

 

THE WAND:
 
The wand represents the element of Air and the Male East. You can purchase a ready made one or collect one from your friendly neighborhood tree. (Ask first, if you want to harvest one from a living tree- and leave a small token of thanks.) Even dowels, such as those sold in hardware stores, can be painted and decorated quite beautifully.
The wand can be used to cast the circle or direct energy in other magickal ways, such as in spells and incantations. There are wands of glass, copper, silver and other metals, but the "classic" material is still wood. Various woods have different magickal associations and uses. It is very common for a "Wand Witch" to have many wands of various types in his/her magickal closet. Witches who do not use athames often use a wand instead.

 

THE ROBE
 
Many covens - and certainly the vast majority of Solitary Witches - work naked... referred to, in the Craft, as skyclad - "clad only by the sky". This certainly seems a preferred and recommended practice. But there are times when, perhaps due to temperature, you may wish to be robed. It may even be that you just prefer to be robed most of the time anyway...that's all right.
Robes can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Here are instructions for making a simple one.
 
Any type of material will do, the choice is up to you - polyester (if you must!), silk, cotton, wool. Consider, though, its weight: will it he too heavy and hot, or too light and cool? Also consider how easily it creases and wrinkles. Will it stretch too much? Is it washable? Will it itch? Since Witches wear nothing under their robes, this last is a serious consideration!
 
Measure yourself from wrist to wrist, with arms outstretched, then from the nape of the neck to the ground. You will need to buy material of A width by twice B length. Take the material and fold it in half. If th material has an "outside" and an "inside", fold it inside out. Now cut out a piece from each side. You will be left with a more-or-less T shape.
 
The exact dimensions of the cuts will depend on you. Leave enough for a full sleeve at "X" but don't take it up to make it too tight under the arm at "Y". At "Z" cut an opening for your head. Sew where indicated : along the bottom of the sleeves and down the sides. All that remains is to turn it right side out again, try it on and hem it at a convenient length (e.g. an inch or so above the ground). It you wish to add a cowl -hood there will he plenty of material available from that initially cut off. Either a pointed or a rounded hood is appropriate.
 
Think carefully about the color of your robe. It used to be that most Witches wore white robes, but more colors are appearing at festivals. In Saxon Witchcraft, the priestess wears either white, purple or deep green and the others wear greens, browns, yellows and blues. Though this is not a hard and fast rule. Combination s of colors can be attractive, of course, as can a basic trimmed with silver or gold, or with a second color. Some few Witches do wear black but, while acknowledging it to be a very "powerful" color (in fact noncolor). Buckland personally thinks that it plays up to the misconception of equating Witchcraft with Satanisn and, if only for that reason, should be avoided. We are a reliqion of Nature, so let's use the colors of Nature.. the bright and the somber earth colors (there is actually very little black to be found in nature). But again, in the last instance it is your choice.

 

ROBE COLORS

 

YELLOW is an excellent color for those involved with divination.

 

PURPLE is favored for those who work with pure divine power (magician's) or who wish to deepen their spiritual awareness of the Goddess & God.

 

BLUE suited for healers & those who work with their psychic awareness or for attuning with the Goddess in Her Oceanic aspect.

 

GREEN empowers herbalists & maqickal ecologists.

 

BROWN worn by those who attune with animals or who casts spells for them.

 

WHITE symbolizes purification & pure spirituality, & also is perfect for meditation and cleansing rituals. It is warn for Full Moon celebrations or to attune with the Goddess

 

ORANGE or RED robes can be worn to Sabbats, for protective rites or when attuning with the God in his fiery solar aspect.

 

BLACK robes are quiet popular. Contrary to popular misconceptions, black doesn't symbolize evil. It is the absence of color. It is a protective hue & symbolizes the night - the universe & a lack of falsehood. When a Wiccan wears a black robe, she or he is donning the blackness of outer space - symbolically, the ultimate source of divine energy.

© The Blue Fairy 2008        If thoust steal any part, three fold will come to your heart...